The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians held its general election on April 26, to fill several positions in Tribal Government. A total of 190 individuals cast ballots, either in person at the Community Center or via absentee ballots.
Tribal Chief Clarissa Sabattis was re-elected to another four-year term with 160 votes. She ran unopposed for the seat that she has held since 2017 and will be embarking on her third term as tribal chief. There are no term limits for elected positions and she is just the fifth chief in the tribe’s 45-year history as a federally-recognized tribe. Previous chiefs were Brenda Commander, Clair Sabattis (Clarissa’s father), Jim Tomah and Terry Polchies.
“I am honored and grateful to be chosen to serve another four years as our Tribal Chief,” Sabattis said. “I understand the importance and commitment it takes to fulfill this role, and I will continue to work diligently for the continued growth and success of our tribal nation and community.”
Brian Reynolds was elected as the Tribal Representative to the Maine Legislature with 160 votes. His term expires in October 2026. Reynolds also serves as the Tribal Administrator for HBMI.
“I am very appreciative to have received the support of my community to represent the Tribe in Augusta,” Reynolds said. “I have a lot to learn about the Legislature and the processes involved, but I am definitely looking forward to the challenge at this point in my career. I feel like I’ve been in training for this kind of opportunity for the last 30 years, while I’ve been working for the Tribe. I plan to do my best to make connections with other legislators to create awareness surrounding Tribal issues, as well as issues that affect the southern Aroostook region that we all call home.”
For Tribal Council, Beth Aucoin (102 votes) and Crystal Tucker (96 votes) were re-elected to the council. Joining them on the council will be Allison Sabattis who received 70 votes. Others receiving votes were: Kristin Anderson (Hardy), 28 votes; Michelle Barrows, 51 votes; Danya Boyce, 67 votes; Ashley Foster-Kinney, 45 votes; and Darcy Gentle, 25 votes.
“I am deeply grateful and moved by the overwhelming support I received at the polls,” Aucoin said. “Over the last four years, I have dedicated myself to addressing the needs of our Nation, and I remain committed to this mission. Having the chance to serve another term fills me with enthusiasm, as it will allow me to see ongoing projects to completion and continue advancing the interests of our community and our tribal sovereignty. I assure you that I will strive tirelessly to ensure a secure and prosperous future for all of us.”
Tucker added her goals for council were “to be strong enough to stand alone, be yourself enough to stand apart, but be wise enough to stand together when the time comes.”
Allison Sabattis said she was eager to get started as the newest tribal councilor. She takes over the seat previously held by John Flewelling for the past 16 years. Flewelling opted not to run for re-election.
“I am honored to be elected to serve my tribal community in this capacity,” she said. “I am looking forward to adding a new perspective to the tribal council and working with other council members towards developing goals for our tribal community and above all else helping these goals be attained and watching our community flourish.
Outgoing councilor John Flewelling was also honored for his 16 years of service to the Tribal Council. Flewelling chose not to seek re-election.
